Main Menu

Are Your Hands Ageing You?

The skin ages faster on the hands because they are exposed daily to chemicals, smoke and most importantly, UV radiation. For women, the changes are exacerbated by the fact that levels of oestrogen, the hormone that stimulates collagen production, so helping to keep skin on hands plump and fleshy, start to drop around the time of the menopause.

But while you can’t stop the natural, biological ageing process, you can take steps to reduce ageing caused by external factors such as pollution, UV radiation and harsh washing up chemicals.

Rough patchesRough areas on hands can mean your diet is too low in essential fatty acids. Just like the skin on your face your hands need to be well nourished to stay smooth and soft. Try eating more foods containing essential fatty acids. Good sources include fish such as salmon and sardines, nuts and seeds. You can add hemp or blended seed oils to salads, smoothies, porridge, cooked vegetables for an extra dose, or even consider taking supplements.

Cracked hands
Cracks and deep lines on hands are usually a sign that your skin is dehydrated. Aim to drink at least two litres of water a day to keep moisture levels well topped up. Keep a bottle with you at all times and take frequent sips. Go for fruit and vegetables with a high water content, such as celery, cucumber, courgettes tomatoes and all types of melon.

Dry and chapped
Exposure to the sun, wind, cold weather, harsh detergents and cleaning products can quickly dry out hands. Moisturise your hands regularly, especially after contact with water. Try to limit the amount of time your hands spend in water and in contact with soaps and detergents, as these can be very drying. Wear rubber gloves when washing up, and slap on a hand cream after washing your hands.

Age spots
Age spots are flat, dark marks on areas of skin exposed frequently to the sun, such as the hands. They are caused by UV light causing uneven build up of pigmentation in the skin. Your best defence against age spots is to use a sunscreen on your hands. Choose one with an SPF 15 or more that also has a high level of UVA protection.

Product Love

Nimue Active Hand Repair RRP $50.00Nimue’s Active Hand Repair has been specially formulated to eliminate unsightly age spots, premature aging and reverse environmental damage. The main ingredient is Kigelia Africana, which comes from the Sausage tree in Africa and has been used as an anti-aging treatment for centuries. Kigelia Africana’s anti-inflammatory properties aid in decreasing inflammation and redness of the skin and can decrease melanoma cells. Kigelia Africana also contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties with regenerating antioxidants that leave skin feeling nourished and hydrated without a greasy residue.